ejektionfraktion

Ejektionsfraktion, often abbreviated as EF, is a crucial measurement in cardiology that quantifies the efficiency of the heart's pumping action. Specifically, it represents the percentage of blood that the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. A normal ejection fraction for the left ventricle typically ranges between 50% and 70%.

The calculation of ejection fraction is usually performed using echocardiography, cardiac MRI, or nuclear imaging. These imaging techniques allow physicians to assess the volume of blood in the ventricle at the end of diastole (when it's full) and at the end of systole (after it has contracted). The difference between these two volumes, divided by the end-diastolic volume, gives the ejection fraction.

A reduced ejection fraction can be an indicator of various heart conditions, most notably heart failure. When the EF is lower than normal, it suggests that the heart muscle is not contracting forcefully enough to pump an adequate amount of blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling. Conversely, an abnormally high EF is less common and can sometimes be seen in certain hypertrophic cardiomyopathies or with aggressive medical therapy.

Monitoring ejection fraction is important for diagnosing heart disease, assessing its severity, and guiding treatment strategies. Improvements in EF can signify a positive response to therapy, while a decline may indicate worsening disease progression or the need for adjustments in medication or other interventions.